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UB semiconductor summit drives collaboration, economic opportunity
Jennifer Flagg, director of the Center for Supply Chain Analytics, School of Management, addresses the audience. Photo: Tom Wolf
By EMILY GAC
Published July 30, 2025
More than 150 leaders from industry, government and academia gathered at UB July 15–16 for “Bridging the Gap: Activating the Semiconductor Supply Chain Network.” The event, hosted by the School of Management’s Center for Supply Chain Analytics and the NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub, focused on building a stronger, more coordinated semiconductor ecosystem across New York State.
Held at the Center for the Arts and the Alfiero Center, the conference tackled urgent questions facing U.S. semiconductor manufacturing. Through keynotes, expert panels and research presentations, attendees shared insights on workforce development, infrastructure needs, supply chain logistics and public policy.
The NY SMART I-Corridor, spanning Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse, recently received $40 million in federal funding to accelerate semiconductor development. This conference helped translate that investment into clear next steps.
“Semiconductors are foundational, but their supply chains are fragile,” said Jennifer Flagg, director of the Center for Supply Chain Analytics. “We created a space where leaders could connect industry goals, research capabilities and policy incentives.”
Benjamin Sio, senior vice president of strategy, policy and planning at CenterState CEO, responds to questions from the audience during a panel discussion. Photo: Tom Wolf
Speakers from Micron, GO-SEMI and the Buffalo Niagara Partnership emphasized the need for strong regional partnerships. Discussions also explored ways to attract and bolster private investment, streamline coordination and reshore critical components.
With manufacturing capabilities stretching across the Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse region, and new investments fueling innovation, Western New York is uniquely positioned to become a vital node in the semiconductor supply chain.
True to its host, the event also emphasized the role of education in sustaining progress. Several presentations focused on preparing students for technical roles and creating clear on-ramps into semiconductor careers, including leveraging the School of Management’s faculty and research centers to develop next-generation solutions.
Attendees left with new contacts, fresh ideas and practical strategies. As interest and investment in semiconductors continue to rise, events like this help ensure New York isn’t just following the trend — it’s an active leader.